This modality focuses on the lateral pterygoid, the most influential muscles in the body for jaw mechanics, jaw pain, pituitary function, eyesite, vibrato for singers, nightmares or unsettling dreams and overall cranial dynamics. It is the keystone of the skull in many ways.

 

Key anatomical features include:

• Origin: sphenoid bone (greater wing and lateral pterygoid plate)
• Insertion: neck of the mandible and TMJ disc
• Fiber direction: horizontal

 

Function:

• protracts the mandible
• assists in opening the jaw
• stabilizes and positions the TMJ disc

 

The Mandibular Nerve Relationship

 

The mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V3) exits the skull and passes directly through the region of the lateral pterygoid.

 

When the lateral pterygoid enters spasm:

• it compresses the mandibular nerve within its fibers
• this can mechanically restrict signaling through the trigeminal system
• all muscles of mastication may reflexively contract
• sensory branches from the teeth, jaw, and face may send pain signals

 

This explains why what is commonly diagnosed as TMJ pain is often not a joint issue at all, but a deep muscular compression of the mandibular nerve.

 

In many cases, the lateral pterygoid is the primary and sole cause of these symptoms.

 

The Role of the Sphenoid Bone

 

The lateral pterygoid originates from the sphenoid bone, a central bone of the skull that supports:

• the cranial base
• the eye structures
• the pituitary gland (within the sella turcica)

 

Although traditionally described as fixed, clinical palpation reveals that the sphenoid can exhibit subtle positional shifts.

 

When the lateral pterygoid is in spasm:

• it draws the sphenoid forward through its origin point
• the body of the sphenoid tilts slightly anteriorly
• this movement can be palpated internally at the junction with the palatine bone along the midline

 

Even a small shift (approximately 1 mm) can have noticeable effects.

 

Sella Turcica and Pituitary Relationship

 

At the center of the sphenoid lies the sella turcica, which houses the pituitary gland.

 

As the sphenoid tilts forward:

• the posterior aspect (“backsheet”) of the sella turcica may press against the pituitary
• this mechanical interaction may influence pituitary activity

 

This relationship is observed in Releasology as a possible explanation for:

• hormonal fluctuations
• vivid dreams or nightmares
• systemic changes following release

 

Yawning may represent a natural reflex that temporarily alters this relationship, potentially assisting in pituitary regulation.

 

These observations reflect the integrated relationship between muscle tension, cranial structure, and endocrine function.